Key Takeaways
- Applications for the second edition of SheRhythms close on 30 October 2026.
- The festival will run on 11‑12 December 2026 at Alliance Française, Accra.
- A pre‑festival masterclass will be held at the University of Ghana’s School of Performing Arts.
- Selected artists receive production support, promotion and industry networking.
The Musicians Union of Ghana (MUSIGA) announced that the SheRhythms Festival, the nation’s leading all‑female music event, is now accepting applications. The two‑day showcase, scheduled for 11‑12 December 2026, will feature performances, workshops and panel discussions designed to elevate women’s voices in the Ghanaian music scene.
Applicants must submit a portfolio, biography and a description of their musical style by 30 October 2026. The festival operates under the theme “Amplifying Her Voice, Elevating Her Art” and is backed by the Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Creative Arts, the Creative Arts Agency, Alliance Française Accra and Benayacom.
Background & Context
SheRhythms emerged in 2023 as a response to the persistent gender gap in Ghana’s music industry, where female artists often face limited access to performance venues and professional development resources. By creating a dedicated platform, MUSIGA seeks to counter systemic barriers and showcase the artistic diversity of women across highlife, afrobeats, gospel and emerging fusion genres.
The festival aligns with broader regional initiatives, such as Nigeria’s Women’s Music Conference and the African Women in Music Summit, reflecting a continental push toward gender‑balanced cultural production. Historical precedents, including the 1990s All‑Women Choir festivals, illustrate how focused events can catalyze lasting change in representation.
Festival Programming
The main event will be preceded by a one‑day intensive masterclass at the University of Ghana’s School of Performing Arts. Curriculum topics include performance excellence, music‑business fundamentals and brand development, delivered by seasoned industry practitioners from Ghana and abroad. Panel discussions will address copyright navigation, digital distribution and revenue diversification.
During the two‑day showcase, each selected artist will perform on a professionally produced stage, benefitting from lighting, sound engineering and visual design that meet international standards. Promotional campaigns will leverage radio, digital platforms and partnership networks to maximize audience reach.
Industry Impact
By integrating training with live performance, SheRhythms creates a pipeline that equips emerging female talent with both artistic and commercial competencies. The festival’s networking component connects artists with record labels, event promoters and media outlets, fostering collaborations that extend beyond the December dates.
Stakeholders anticipate that the heightened visibility will encourage investment in women‑led music ventures, influencing festival line‑ups, radio playlists and streaming algorithms across West Africa. The inclusion of international artists further positions Ghana as a hub for cross‑border cultural exchange.
Looking Ahead
The success of the second edition will inform MUSIGA’s long‑term strategy for gender equity in music, potentially expanding the festival to additional cities and incorporating mentorship programs. Ongoing assessment of participant outcomes will guide policy recommendations for the Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Creative Arts.
Future iterations may also explore hybrid formats, blending physical concerts with virtual streaming to reach diaspora audiences and amplify the festival’s economic impact.
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